Valerie Adams

Our shot put queen, Valerie Adams, is the reigning Commonwealth, World, World Indoor, and Olympic champion making her a strong gold medal prospect for London. The 1.93m tall thrower has a long history of representing New Zealand having first thrown for her country at the World Youth Championships in 1999. Since then she has been to 5 World Championships, 4 World Indoor Championships, 3 Commonwealth Games and 2 Olympic Games. Amazingly, since 2005 she has not finished outside the top 3 in any international competition.

Valerie produced a throw of 21.03m in Rome earlier this year placing her first in the world until arch-rival Nadzeya Ostapchuk edged back in front with a throw of 21.39m in July. Never one to back down, Valerie will no doubt step up to the challenge and regain her world number one ranking and retain her Olympic title when she steps into the throwing circle in London.